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Destination: IRONMAN 70.3 Timberman

Whether it's history, hiking, or lakeside family fun, Gilford has something for every athlete.

Located in Gilford, a town in the Lakes Region of Belknap County, New Hampshire, IRONMAN 70.3 Timberman is a late-summer gem. In addition to the festival-like atmosphere of the race itself, the town and surrounding area make the perfect race destination for families. If you're heading to the race this year, don't go alone.

We've compiled a list of things to do after you complete your IRONMAN 70.3 event, from candy sampling to outlet store shopping to hiking. Don't miss out on this New England summer favorite.

Gunstock Mountain Resort in Gilford is a great place to people watch, take a scenic lift ride, rent a paddle boat, do a Segway tour, or enjoy New England's largest aerial obstacle course at the Mountain Adventure Park. The area's many hiking trails will take you through the Belknap Range, where you can enjoy views of the surrounding Presidential and Sandwich Ranges, Lake Winnipesaukee and the Ossipee Mountain Range. You definitely can't squeeze it all into one day, so plan to spend some time on the mountain. For more hiking suggestions in the area, visit Lakesregion.org.

Historical gems in the area abound. If you're a history buff, Take a step back in time and visit the John J. Morrill General Store (1857), the Benjamin Rowe House (c. 1838) or the Union Meetinghouse (1834).

Tilton's Arch, also known as the Memorial Arch, sits atop a hillside in Northfield. The arch is a replica of a Roman Arch, and was built in the late 1800's as a memorial to the ancestors of Charles E. Tilton, the town's wealthiest citizen. The arch is made of Concord Granite, and stands 50 feet tall and 40 feet wide. Take in the surrounding views from the arch, and marvel at its size.

The Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad takes visitors on excursions around Lake Winnipesaukee, leaving from Meredith Bay to Weirs Beach and onto Paugus Bay before making a return trip to Weirs and back to Meredith. The train offers one and two hour trips, carrying passengers on a seven-mile waterfront journey. Jump on board for an exciting ride around the lake or all the way into the White Mountains.

The Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion at Meadowbrook is a unique outdoor amphitheater to take in a concert or event. Visit their website to find out what's playing during your stay.

Kellerhaus is the oldest candy shop in New Hampshire. Stop by and choose from their vast collection of chocolates, traditional favorites, fudge, nuts and maple products. Located at Weirs Beach, Kellerhaus also makes ribbon candy by hand, one of the few places in the world to still make it that way. During the summer months, the shop is well known for their ice cream sundae buffet. Pile on the toppings and enjoy this one-of-a-kind treat.

Castle in the Clouds in Moultonborough sits high in the Ossipee Mountain Range and offers dramatic panoramic views from "the clouds." (Photo above.) Built in 1914, the Arts and Crafts-style mansion is an architectural wonder, but the castle also offers 45 miles of hiking trails on 5,000 acres to explore. A short walk leads to a cascading waterfall, and an interpretive trail features an interactive exploration of the ecology, history and geology of the area.

Tanger Outlet Center in Tilton is a place to find your favorite designer, from Jones New York to Tommy Hilfiger. Visit the Coach factory or do some back-to-school shopping at the Gap Outlet or Osh Kosh B'gosh.